Introducing the MaRS Women in Cleantech Network
Empowering women to lead Canada’s net-zero future.
Toronto, March 5, 2024 — In a significant stride toward fostering gender diversity and innovation in the cleantech sector, MaRS, Canada’s largest urban innovation hub, today announced the launch of the MaRS Women in Cleantech Network, a dynamic community designed to empower and support women entrepreneurs driving sustainable solutions. This pioneering initiative aims to bolster women entrepreneurs at the forefront of developing sustainable and groundbreaking solutions. Building on the formidable foundation of the Women in Cleantech Challenge (WIC) program, initiated in 2018 and now the RBC Women in Cleantech Accelerator, the network is set to redefine the landscape for female-led cleantech ventures.
Bridging the gap for women in cleantech
Despite marked advancements, women’s representation in cleantech remains disproportionately low, facing unique challenges and barriers to success, particularly in leadership roles where they constitute merely 26 percent (Cleantech Group, 2023). The MaRS Women in Cleantech Network directly addresses this gap by providing a vital support system and fostering collaboration.
Network Highlights:
Founding Members: Composed of past and present WIC program participants, these cleantech founders create a strong foundation of shared experience and knowledge.
Ecosystem Support Champions: A select group of investors, leadership experts and corporate adopters will join to offer diverse perspectives and guidance.
Online Community Platform: A dedicated platform for connection, resource sharing and business support.
Bi-annual roundtables: Closed-door roundtables to dive deep into the members’ challenges, sharing words of advice, connections and community support to enable them to succeed.
MaRS Women in Cleantech Network Showcase Event: An annual event to celebrate achievements, inspire future generations, and amplify the network’s impact.
“The MaRS Women in Cleantech Network is not just an initiative; it’s a catalyst for change, driving gender parity and innovation in the cleantech sector,” says Leah Perry, senior manager in cleantech at MaRS Discovery District. “We’ve witnessed the power of community through our WIC programming and are excited to build upon that success, providing a network where these founders can share contacts, tactics, funding opportunities and ultimately feel less lonely in their entrepreneurial journey”
At the heart of the MaRS Women in Cleantech Network lies a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by women in the sector. Through such initiatives as dedicated support groups, roundtable discussions and showcase events, the network seeks to dismantle barriers and foster a culture of mutual support, innovation and growth. It’s about unleashing the untapped potential of women entrepreneurs to lead the charge against climate change and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.
“I’m proud to have been part of the team that founded the MaRS Women in Cleantech program back in 2018, and witnessing the thriving community that MaRS has fostered is truly inspiring,” says Jane Kearns. “As a previous cleantech founder myself, I deeply wish I’d had access to such a powerful network when I started. Now, as a donor to the MaRS Women in Cleantech Network, I’m thrilled to empower the next generation of women cleantech leaders and witness the incredible impact this network will have.”
Inspiring Action and Change
The MaRS Women in Cleantech Network sparks inspiration for future generations through its “See it to be it” philosophy. Showcasing the achievements of its members, the network not only ignites passion but offers tangible support, empowering the next wave of women to become leaders in cleantech.
“Since the beginning of our venture, MaRS has been an invaluable partner, providing unparalleled support and guidance, truly demonstrating a level of care that makes them (dare I say) the only one we call home,” says Roya Aghighi, co-founder of Lite-1. “Their commitment to our success extends beyond words, and I’m especially excited about the MaRS Women in Cleantech Network as an invaluable platform for continued learning, collaboration, and support, enabling us to achieve even greater impact.”
The MaRS Women in Cleantech Network embarks on its inaugural year with a powerful community of trailblazing founders as its foundation. This network is a catalyst for change recognizing the untapped potential of women leaders and fosters the bold ideas needed to reach net-zero emissions. By celebrating diverse voices and supporting innovative solutions, the network charts a clear path toward a sustainable, inclusive future.
“Enbridge Gas has been delivering the energy people want and need for over 175 years, embracing innovation and adapting to new technologies along the way,” explained Heidi Bredenholler-Prasad, vice president and chief customer officer at Enbridge Gas. “We are committed to meeting net-zero emissions targets and investments in innovative low-carbon energy solutions. More than that, we recognize the power of women in shaping these solutions, and having strong representation and support in the workplace. Our sponsorship of the Cleantech Network is a reflection of our commitment to investing in partners like MaRS that augment women, and take measures toward creating a more sustainable future.”
Cleantech experts and potential donors interested in supporting the Network can contact Leah Perry at lperry@marsdd.com.
About MaRS Discovery District
MaRS Discovery District helps Canadian startups succeed so they can solve our toughest problems in areas like climate, health and the economy. As North America’s largest urban innovation hub and a registered charity, MaRS provides direct support for more than 1,200 ventures, builds communities of innovators within its 1.5 million square feet of lab and office space and beyond, and spurs the adoption of new solutions — in Canada and around the world.
For media inquiries:
Wendy Bairos
Director Communications, MaRS Discovery District
416-831-9820
wendy.bairos@gmail.com